Virgin Atlantic, Emirates Latest To Join TSA PreCheck

PHOTO: Virgin Atlantic is one of 11 airlines that joined the TSA PreCheck program last week. (Courtesy Flickr/Aero Pixels)

When Spirit Airlines and Canada’s Sunwing Airlines joined the Transportation Security Administration’s PreCheck program this week, it turns out it was just the tip of the iceberg.

In fact, the TSA’s popular program signed up 11 new airlines including Virgin Atlantic becoming the United Kingdom’s first airline to join as well as Emirates.

In addition to Spirit, Sunwing, VA and Emirates, the TSA’s PreCheck program will now be available for eligible passengers flying on Aruba Airlines, Avianca, Boutique Airlines, Key Lime Air, Miami Air International, Southern Airways Express, and Xtra Airways.

“Partnering with 11 additional airlines to offer TSA PreCheck will significantly increase our trusted traveler population, and reflects our commitment to implement the most effective aviation security,” TSA acting Administrator Huban A. Gowadia said in a statement. “By collaborating with our partners in industry and the aviation community, we will continue to increase the number of airlines participating in TSA PreCheck, enabling more eligible travelers across the country to experience expedited screening.”

TSA Precheck is an expedited screening program that enables trusted travelers to bypass traditional security checkpoints at more than 180 U.S. airports.

TSAPrecheck travelers are not required to remove shoes, 3-1-1 compliant liquids, laptops, light outerwear or belts. Enrollment is something of a process – applicants must be approved by the TSA after filling out forms and conducting an in-person interview – but the $85 cost is for five years.